Tooth sensitivity after dental fillings is perfectly normal, and usually diminishes in the days after treatment. But for many people, exposure to cold substances is an ongoing source of oral pain or aggravation. This pain can even occur as temperatures start to fall and cold weather sets in. At Shining Smiles Family Dentistry in Marietta, we are here to help with advice on all types of toothache.
Have you ever felt the stinging, zapping sensation to your teeth when exposed to cold weather? Whether you’re outside building a snowman with your kids or skiing with friends, chances are you know what we’re referring to. The zapping sensation can be felt when your teeth become exposed to cold weather or cold foods. It can be annoying and downright painful.
What Causes Your Teeth to Hurt When it’s Cold Outside?
- Expansion and contraction (and cracked teeth) – Your front teeth can change as much as 120 degrees in temperature. Crazy, right? This expansion and contraction as they change in temperature can cause sensitivity. Consequently, you may end up with small cracks in the teeth, but don’t worry, tooth structure is not impacted. Instead, you might feel sensitivity to cold weather or cold foods.
- Exposed dentin underneath the tooth enamel – If the layer of tooth enamel wears away (which is the outer layer of the tooth that provides protection), the dentin layer below will be exposed. If the dentin is exposed, you may feel that zapping sensation when exposed to cold air or cold beverages/foods. Once those nerves of the tooth become exposed, you’re sure to experience sensitivity.
Other Reasons Why Your Teeth Are Sensitive
Tooth sensitivity is a common problem experienced by adults and children, and the causes can be numerous. Identifying the cause of toothache is necessary to properly address this painful issue. The most common reasons why your teeth are sensitive include:
- Cracked teeth
- Gum/periodontal disease
- Strong teeth whitening toothpaste
- Decayed or weakened tooth enamel
- Brushing and flossing too aggressively
- Acidic food and acidic beverage consumption
- Teeth grinding
- Acid reflux
To learn more about each item above, visit our blog post.
How to Prevent Cold Weather Tooth Pain
Let’s explore some ways you can stop cold weather tooth pain. Aside from brushing and flossing 2-3 times per day and eating a healthy diet (including drinking lots of water), there are a few things you can do to protect your teeth in cold weather.
- When outdoors, breathe through your nose as much as possible instead of your mouth. By the time the air reaches your mouth, it will be a bit warmer and less likely to cause sensitivity.
- Lightly wrap a scarf around the mouth in order to warm up the air before it hits your teeth.
- Cup your hands around the mouth and nose to warm up the air before you inhale.
How a Dentist Treats Cold Weather Sensitivity
Visiting your dentist every six months is crucial for identifying serious oral health issues. If your cold weather sensitivity is a concern, your dentist may recommend various effective treatments including the following.
- Desensitizing toothpaste – Toothpaste containing certain active ingredients can offer relief from tooth pain.
- Teeth scaling – Scaling can reduce levels of plaque and enamel to prevent periodontal disease.
- Fillings – Tooth sensitivity is often increased as a result of cavities.
- Dental bonding – Treatments for cracks or broken teeth will frequently minimize sensitivity.
- Dental crown – Damaged teeth are often best treated with protective dental crowns.
Ensuring you attend regular dental cleanings and oral exams is the best way for your dentist to spot many of these issues. Of course, if tooth sensitivity becomes a consistent issue, schedule an appointment with your dentist. Call Shining Smiles Family Dentistry if you’re near Marietta, GA. In the meantime, check out our patient reviews.
Professional Family, Restorative and Cosmetic Dentistry in Marietta
Shining Smiles Family Dentistry is a leading provider of oral exams, dental cleanings, restorative dentistry and cosmetic treatments. For a routine checkup or a dental treatment, visit our Marietta office. To reach us, call (770) 420-8550 or request an appointment now.
Sources:
Delta Dental
